Who We Are

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Fisheries Program has played a vital role in conserving America's fisheries since 1871, partnering with states, tribes, federal agencies, other Service programs, and private interests in efforts to conserve fish and other aquatic resources. The Fisheries Program provides a broad network of on-the-ground expertise that is unique in its geographic coverage, its array of scientific capabilities, and its ability to work strategically across political and jurisdictional boundaries.

How We Help

La Crosse Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office works to:

Restore native, interjurisdictional fishes and aquatic habitats

Prevent the extinction of federally endangered fish and mussels

Impede the spread of nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species

Provide environmental education and outreach

Survey National Wildlife Refuges, provide management options

Attain fish passage on streams and restore historic fish migrations

Work on river and stream restoration, rehabilitation, and enhancement projects

Coordinate two National Fish Habitat Partnerships: Driftless Area Restoration Effort and Fishers & Farmers Partnership for the Upper Mississippi River Basin

Coordinate Upper Mississippi River Conservation Committee

Coordinate Regional Motorboat Operator Certification Courses

Coordinate Regional Dive Team to mainly assist with mussel restoration

Work with Friends of the Upper Mississippi Fishery Services (FUMFS)

Fulfill federal trust responsibilities to Native American Tribes

Tribal Trust Responsibilities

Conserving U.S. fish and other aquatic resources cannot be successful without the partnership of tribes. They manage or influence some of the most important aquatic habitats both on and off reservations. In addition, the federal government and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have distinct and unique obligations toward tribes based on trust responsibility, treaty provisions, and statutory mandates.